Thoren Farms Named Illinois Beef Association Environmental Steward of the Year

Greg and Janis Thoren earned the honor for their conservation-minded approach to raising cattle and crops

STOCKTON, Ill. (RFD News) — Protecting natural resources and improving land stewardship are top priorities at Thoren Farms, a commitment that recently earned the operation statewide recognition.

Greg and Janis Thoren were named the 2026 Illinois Beef Association Environmental Steward of the Year for their regenerative farming and conservation efforts.

The award recognizes beef producers who demonstrate outstanding stewardship of natural resources while maintaining productive farming operations.

Thoren Farms was honored during the Illinois Beef Association’s annual meeting in Springfield.

Related Stories
Waylon NeSmith says continuing the operation is a way to carry on the lessons and legacy his father left behind.
In honor of America’s 250th birthday with each pup named after a national park.

Culver’s is holding its annual “Scoops of Thanks Day” event, offering a scoop of frozen custard in exchange for a $1 donation supporting agricultural education.
The Overstreet family’s cattle operation combines conservation practices with decades of resilience.
UT Institute of Agriculture reporter Charles Denney visited a class at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, where students in the School of Natural Resources traded traditional classrooms for hands-on outdoor learning.
We Drank From A Poisoned Well set to release in July

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Canadian industry leaders argue the tax policies cited by U.S. officials are similar to exemptions already used by American growers.
Seven McIlhenny Company employees received the Louisiana Honor Medal for their military service.
The operation focuses on seasonal cut flowers while supporting local businesses across the region.
Farmers say weather extremes and rising costs are creating a more challenging season across Georgia peach country.
SC Ranch spans more than 7,700 acres and markets all of its beef within the state.
University of Wisconsin-Madison’s John Shutske says simple safety habits can help prevent some of agriculture’s most common injuries.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.